Kodaly Rhythm

Here at Hedges, I use the Kodaly method of teaching music across all grade levels. For room 202, fifth-grade, they have learned the various rhythmic syllables that express the duration of common rhythmic musical notes. For example, quarter notes are expressed by the syllable "Ta" while eighth note pairs are expressed using the syllables "Ti-Ti". For our activities, students were divided into sectionals, each person had an opportunity to write a two measure rhythmic pattern while others had to read and perform them aloud. 

Music Technology Room 308-8th

For the next two weeks, eighth-grade students are working on their music technology GarageBand project. This is a music and technology integrated unit using a shared vocabulary, common standards for both contents, for college and career readiness. The project uses a wide variety of elements with various tracks; including loops, effects, and various instrumental selections to combine. The rubric is made up of five sections including elements, organization and structure, rhythm, musicality, and the use of technology. 

After-School Rock Band with IMW

At Hedges, we are proud of offering a variety of educational afterschool programs for our students. One of our outstanding music programs offered is the Hedges Rock Band in partnership with Intonation Music Workshop. Students learn how to play numerous instruments including piano, electric guitar, electric bass, vocals, Latin  percussion, and drum set. 

8th Grade Room 308 - Guitar Unit

Eighth-grade students from room 308 are preparing for their final performance exam at the end of the week. Over the course of two weeks, they have learned the history of the Spanish guitar, the vocabulary, parts, and a ii-V-I progression in the key of C Major; along with these chords, they learned a Maroon 5 song called "Sunday Morning".

Rockin' 5th Graders! A note at a time...

Today, fifth grade students explored the electrical stringed instruments as the final day of the Strings Family, along with the Rock style. They learned how an electric bass functions, it's purpose in a band, and basic playing techniques to start a jam session. All students have studied a variety of instruments, their history, famous musicians, a variety of genres, and have completed daily journals of what they have learned throughout the week. 

"High & Low" "Fast & Slow"

Kindergarten students learned the basic fundamentals, "high and low, fast and slow" concepts through song, dance, and following rhythm with percussion instruments. Then, they drew five individual everyday objects that represent "fast & slow". They then shared it with each other. 

Instrument Learning Centers -Exploring the Families

Today, my third grade students learned 

the Brass and Stringed family of 

instruments.They learned the history, anatomy, and the basic playing technique of each instrument to start their first few notes.

 I enjoy seeing their faces light up of excitement after handing them an instrument.